Studies have shown that 1 in 3 people or about 35% of the population falls sick before Summer. They exhibit symptoms similar to hay fever. These symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, congestion, headaches, dry skin, and rashes. This illness is so common that it is known that post-winter allergies run rampant.

In the past, it was thought that the illness was the result of pollen that may have fallen from in home plants and specifically trees. It was even thought that the use of chemicals such as weed killer in cultivating the trees played a part in making people ill. More recent studies, however, have shown that this illness is the result of air quality issues specifically related to the presence of mold.

The studies show that General Allergy Syndrome is actually caused by the release of mold spores which in turn cause an allergic reaction with symptoms similar to hay fever. Some of the most common symptoms of General Allergy Syndrome include:

• Sinus pain
• Rhinitis
• Asthma attacks
• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Cold-like symptoms that only subside when the Summertime has passed and allergins have been removed from the home, or when you go into another room where the tree is absent.

How to minimize mold exposure during and after Summer. Mold spores can be found everywhere including on trees. However, they will flourish when given the right conditions. You can minimize their impact on your health by:

1. Having your tree hosed down before you bring it into the home. Some tree nurseries have services for washing trees.
2. Thoroughly clean your ornaments before putting them up. They may harbor mold from previous years.
3. Take allergy medication to alleviate the symptoms of allergic reactions.
4. Invest in an air purifier and place it in the same room as your plants or (trees) to help alleviate allergy symptoms.
5. Invest in an artificial tree. Ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned before you put it up.

If you’re not sure about the state of your home, you should invest in mold testing. This will help ensure that you identify mold infestations and determine whether remediation is required. Having your home inspected for mold will ensure that you have an enjoyable and allergy-free Summer and beyond. It is definitely worth the investment.